Periodontal disease in Mother  linked to
Preterm, Low Birth Weight Babies

Studies in the Journal of Periodontology have shown a relationship between periodontal disease and preterm, low birthweight babies. Women with periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small.

"Any infection, including periodontal infection, is cause for concern during pregnancy," said Gordon Douglass, D.D.S., and president of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). "Pre-existing periodontal disease or periodontal disease that increases in severity during pregnancy can also increase a woman's chances of a preterm low birthweight baby. Because periodontal disease is often "silent," many women don't know they have it, so a periodontal evaluation is definitely a good idea prior to becoming pregnant."

Treating periodontal disease and/or removing gingivitis may also prevent other oral complications. "Beginning in the second or third month of pregnancy, expectant mothers often experience increased gingivitis also called pregnancy gingivitis that increases in severity throughout the eighth month," said Douglass. "Significant progression of pregnancy gingivitis can lead to more severe periodontal infections."

The increase in estrogen and progesterone levels during this time causes the gums to react differently to the bacteria in plaque. This reaction causes swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue.

"The good news is women who treat their periodontal health prior to pregnancy decrease their chances of experiencing pregnancy gingivitis." said Douglass. "Women should always take extra care of their oral health because their hormonal fluctuations can affect many tissues, including gum tissues."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is encouraging women to take care of themselves before, during and after they become pregnant. The AAP co-sponsored an event with the CDC this past April about public health implications of periodontal infections in adults.

For a free brochure titled Women and Periodontal Disease and How to Brush and Floss, use the AAP's online request form or toll-free number 800-FLOSS-EM. or visit www.perio.org for more information.

Source: American Academy of Periodontology

TOP | Back to Health Recommends.... E-books on Parenting Download these Resources Today!   The Vitality Connection Ten Practical Ways to Optimize Your Health and Reverse the Aging Process   More Energy For Moms How to beat mommy burnout and live with vitality, passion, and joy.     The Single Mom's Survival Guide   Bethanny Davis draws on her own experience as a single mom to share helpful advice with readers.     Amazing Baby Sleep Secrets The best-selling book that puts infants and toddlers to sleep like magic.   How To Send Your Child To College Free book informing parents how to send their child to college with virtually no money.     Have Fun With Kids Anywhere And Anytime Be the wonderful, fun, smart parent you always knew you were! 136 fun things to do anytime, anywhere.     101 Word Games To Play In The Car A collection of all verbal word games for the whole family to play during short and long road trips.     Parenting Toolbox / Anger Toolbox Powerful tools for living a happy, healthy life.     Ketchup In The Medicine Cabinet? Great ideas and products for parents of all kinds of kids.     See our recommendations in these categories as well! Marriage   Relationships   Dating   Wedding   Family Law & Finance   Health Sexuality Travel E-book Search Engine: Over 11,000 titles in our library!  Enter a subject or keyword below and find your solution!